Phainopepla
Image: Jess Beauchemin (cc-by-nc)
NamePhainopepla
Common NamePhainopepla
Scientific NamePhainopepla nitens
FamilyPtilogonatidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)22
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely glossy black with a prominent crest and a large white patch on the inner primaries, visible in flight. Adult females are dull gray with a smaller crest and less conspicuous white wing patches. Both sexes have striking red eyes.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a soft, rising 'wheerp' or 'whurp' call, and a varied, warbling song often delivered from a high perch.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert scrub, chaparral, riparian woodlands, oak woodlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States, primarily California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, extending south into Mexico.
Identifying Featuresprominent crest, glossy black plumage (male), dull gray plumage (female), red eyes, white wing patches (visible in flight)
Description
The Phainopepla is a sleek, medium-sized songbird characterized by its prominent crest and striking red eyes. Males are glossy black, while females are dull gray. They are often seen perching conspicuously, sallying out to catch insects or pluck berries.
